Calculated stab at commercial success aside, subsequent releases were lesser takes on this streamlined, direct template. Irrespective, here’s a worthwhile excuse for revisiting some often undervalued material.
Given outspoken main man Dave Mustaine was at his foot-in-mouth best/worst prior to the US presidential election, a timely reminder of Megadeth's musical prowess is appreciated. Although a fan-polarising collection, they've acknowledged the 20th anniversary of their fifth and most successful LP.
Forgoing Rust In Peace's high-octane, thrashed-up riff-o-rama, it's a strong batch of slick, predominantly mid-paced, arena-baiting metal, boasting more hooks than a game-fishing tournament. Despite already being afforded the remaster treatment once, the bonus Countdown…-era live set (also remixed) makes this worthwhile given it's never been released in its entirety. This remaster sounds punchier and crisper, and removed from fan discontent circa-1992, there's little denying its potency. Frontloaded with singles in true pop fashion, Mustaine's mission for a #1 record was unsurprisingly an affront to many metallers. The radio songs are winners, though, and Mustaine's never been as charismatic. Devil-may-care opener Skin O' My Teeth and the thunderous, mechanical groove and inescapable melody of sonic missile Symphony Of Destruction offer a hefty one-two punch. Hilariously paranoid Sweating Bullets was an MTV smash and Foreclosure Of A Dream further indicated their socio-political conscience was intact. Elsewhere, there are overlooked gems. War-themed Architecture Of Aggression's crunch is offset by a striking chorus; the thoughtful title track connects and Ashes In Your Mouth satisfyingly turns up the speed and aggression, containing Marty Friedman's inspired, frantic lead work. Had High Speed Dirt and Captive Honour been omitted, few would have mourned, though.
Calculated stab at commercial success aside, subsequent releases were lesser takes on this streamlined, direct template. Irrespective, here's a worthwhile excuse for revisiting some often undervalued material.